Common NighthawkChotacabras migratorio

This is a medium-sized, long-winged, crepuscular or nocturnal bird within the nightjar family, whose presence and identity are best revealed by its call or vocalization. It is dark brown and gray, displaying cryptic coloration and intricate patterns, this bird is difficult to spot with the naked eye during the day. It has an erratic flight and is very difficult to observe. A most remarkable feature of this aerial insectivore is its small beak in relation to the massiveness of its mouth. It has a forked tail with a white bar. It may be found in forests, desert, beach and desert scrub, cities, and prairies. With its horizontal stance and short legs, the common nighthawk does not travel on the ground, instead preferring to perch horizontally, parallel to branches, on posts, on the ground or on a roof. Flying at a height slightly above the treetops, he abruptly dives for the ground. As he peels out of his dive, it flexes its wings downward, and the air rushing across his wingtips makes a deep booming or whooshing sound, as if a racecar has just passed by. The dives may be directed at females, territorial intruders, and even people. It feeds on flying insects using its long wings. Food availability is likely a key factor in determining when and which areas are suitable for habitation. The young are so well camouflaged that they’re hard to find, and even the adults seem to vanish as soon as they land. This bird is not well adapted to survive in poor conditions, such as low food availability. It weighs 55 to 98 g (1.9 to 3.5 oz) and has a life span of 4 to 5 years.